Psychiatrists in Long Neck, DE
Dr. Xiaojing Shi is a board-certified general adult psychiatrist. She is a dedicated and experienced community outpatient psychiatrist who graduated from Rutgers New Jersey Medical School Psychiatry Residency Program, formerly worked as an outpatient psychiatrist and a faculty of Case Western Reserve University in Department of Psychiatry, MetroHealth System in Cleveland. She has working experience in treating depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety, ADHD, dementia and many other psychiatric diseases. She provides psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapeutic services.
Dr. Xiaojing Shi is a board-certified general adult psychiatrist. She is a dedicated and experienced community outpatient psychiatrist who graduated from Rutgers New Jersey Medical School Psychiatry Residency Program, formerly worked as an outpatient psychiatrist and a faculty of Case Western Reserve University in Department of Psychiatry, MetroHealth System in Cleveland. She has working experience in treating depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety, ADHD, dementia and many other psychiatric diseases. She provides psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapeutic services.
![Photo of Dia Arpon, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b51afb42-e87d-4a3b-8a22-be635cad3ad6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dia Arpon is a Psychiatrist in Delaware who has been practicing since 2006. Dr. Arpon provides empathy, knowledge, experience, family medicine and general psychiatry training. She is trained in multiple therapy approaches such as trauma focused therapy, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, supportive, and motivational interviewing. Dr. Arpon specializes in PTSD, substance abuse, LGBTQI issues, community, women's health, Depression, and Anxiety. Outside of work, Dr. Arpon is an avid reader, movie goer, music fan, and world traveler.
Dr. Dia Arpon is a Psychiatrist in Delaware who has been practicing since 2006. Dr. Arpon provides empathy, knowledge, experience, family medicine and general psychiatry training. She is trained in multiple therapy approaches such as trauma focused therapy, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, supportive, and motivational interviewing. Dr. Arpon specializes in PTSD, substance abuse, LGBTQI issues, community, women's health, Depression, and Anxiety. Outside of work, Dr. Arpon is an avid reader, movie goer, music fan, and world traveler.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Candace Thune, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80ec412d-f152-4bf5-8602-c32d33f4b849/1/320x400.jpeg)
Candace Thune
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Selbyville, DE 19975
Our mission is to create trust and a personal relationship between the individual and provider for a more calming and communicative experience. Insight Health and Wellness prioritizes mental health needs and mindfulness practices where the individual is at the forefront of each appointment. We are accepting new patients for medication management and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Our mission is to create trust and a personal relationship between the individual and provider for a more calming and communicative experience. Insight Health and Wellness prioritizes mental health needs and mindfulness practices where the individual is at the forefront of each appointment. We are accepting new patients for medication management and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
![Photo of Chloe Griffith, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b367c37-8316-464a-98e3-9a584f51a109/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millsboro, DE 19966 (Online Only)
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
![Photo of Chloe Griffith, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04d38a48-daf1-44fc-9c83-b043da89963f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millsboro, DE 19966 (Online Only)
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
![Photo of Ellen Meshileya, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccb8742f-45ce-4bfe-bef5-d33d41d0c6eb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ellen Meshileya is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Delaware. Ellen provides a safe space for clients to receive appropriate help for their specific mental health diagnosis. Outside of work, Ellen enjoys spending time with family, traveling, going for walks on the beach, and watching movies.
Ellen Meshileya is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Delaware. Ellen provides a safe space for clients to receive appropriate help for their specific mental health diagnosis. Outside of work, Ellen enjoys spending time with family, traveling, going for walks on the beach, and watching movies.
![Photo of Emily Heishman - Bayside Wellness LLC, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4332409-0512-44d6-97b8-390c4acfde14/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bayside Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Georgetown, DE 19947
Hello! I'm Emily Heishman, a Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Bayside Wellness. My passion lies in guiding individuals toward achieving their best physical and mental health. At Bayside Wellness, we believe in the power of a comprehensive approach to health care, integrating psychiatric mental health medication management with primary medical care.
Hello! I'm Emily Heishman, a Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Bayside Wellness. My passion lies in guiding individuals toward achieving their best physical and mental health. At Bayside Wellness, we believe in the power of a comprehensive approach to health care, integrating psychiatric mental health medication management with primary medical care.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Wanda Hedian, FNP, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49ee1af0-f30d-4c7f-b990-cccf6674fa22/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wanda Hedian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dover, DE 19901
I have devoted my time caring for patients as a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to create an impact in the health and mental well being of individuals in diverse communities. By providing unconditional acceptance of their symptoms in a stigma free-environment and encouraging self-advocacy, I have been able to encourage physical, emotional, and mental health recovery. Through encouragement, acceptance, and advocacy my patients have found recovery that is meaningful and attainable, thereby influencing their personal desire for health promotion and self care.
I have devoted my time caring for patients as a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to create an impact in the health and mental well being of individuals in diverse communities. By providing unconditional acceptance of their symptoms in a stigma free-environment and encouraging self-advocacy, I have been able to encourage physical, emotional, and mental health recovery. Through encouragement, acceptance, and advocacy my patients have found recovery that is meaningful and attainable, thereby influencing their personal desire for health promotion and self care.
![Photo of Shashikala Venkatachalapathy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c5f103e-38e6-417b-ab64-6e1abad31d53/1/320x400.jpeg)
I treat all the psychiatric disorders. I believe in therapy however, my expertise is in psychopharmacology/Medication management. I'm empathic and a good listener. I believe in educating my patients about their illness, treatments and give them hope.
I treat all the psychiatric disorders. I believe in therapy however, my expertise is in psychopharmacology/Medication management. I'm empathic and a good listener. I believe in educating my patients about their illness, treatments and give them hope.
![Photo of Heather Cini - Journeys LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab291872-72eb-46e5-bb17-875668cfb0aa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Making the decision to enter counseling is not always an easy one. It is one that takes a lot of courage. Journeys creates a holistic environment to treat both the mind and the soul. Our clinicians have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. You will always feel welcome and accepted. Together we will find the treatment plan that fits you. Our therapists and Nurse Practitioner works with mental health, co-occurring, and dual diagnosis clients.
Making the decision to enter counseling is not always an easy one. It is one that takes a lot of courage. Journeys creates a holistic environment to treat both the mind and the soul. Our clinicians have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. You will always feel welcome and accepted. Together we will find the treatment plan that fits you. Our therapists and Nurse Practitioner works with mental health, co-occurring, and dual diagnosis clients.
![Photo of Ericka Taylor-Daniel, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0dc6c3f2-1d70-4bb6-852d-71abe14bec77/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ericka Taylor-Daniel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Dover, DE 19904
As someone committed to the well-being and dignity of everyone, I believe in the profound importance of providing competent and compassionate care to those dealing with mental health and addiction issues. In the heart of this dedication lies the recognition of each person's inherent worth and the understanding that their struggles do not define them. Providing competent and compassionate care to people struggling with mental health and addiction issues is not just a professional obligation—it's a moral imperative. Using these principles in my practice, I strive to make a difference in the lives of patients and their families
As someone committed to the well-being and dignity of everyone, I believe in the profound importance of providing competent and compassionate care to those dealing with mental health and addiction issues. In the heart of this dedication lies the recognition of each person's inherent worth and the understanding that their struggles do not define them. Providing competent and compassionate care to people struggling with mental health and addiction issues is not just a professional obligation—it's a moral imperative. Using these principles in my practice, I strive to make a difference in the lives of patients and their families
![Photo of Aviva Zohar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93e6ee76-051b-4e9d-bb47-212f2f99faee/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ready for change? At Thalia Medical, our treatment philosophy balances meeting you where you are and supporting you to get to where you want to be. Our services include medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. We are powered by a balanced approach — curating an individualized, evidence-based program that supports our clients not just medically, but emotionally, physically, and socially as well. We are now offering Telehealth in Delaware & Florida.
Ready for change? At Thalia Medical, our treatment philosophy balances meeting you where you are and supporting you to get to where you want to be. Our services include medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. We are powered by a balanced approach — curating an individualized, evidence-based program that supports our clients not just medically, but emotionally, physically, and socially as well. We are now offering Telehealth in Delaware & Florida.
![Photo of Marc Exilus - Alert Mind Mental Health Services LLC, APRN-BC, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ded057d5-3523-44c1-a206-da02c124dde1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alert Mind Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19711
Marc Exilus is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in psychiatry. Marc has experience working in various settings, including community mental health, IOP/PHP, correctional, and hospital. I have experience working with diverse patient populations. Building the client-provider relationship is essential; I want to understand the client's needs and goals, and together, we can identify the best treatment outcomes. I have a proven record of treating complicated and severe mental disorders, including bipolar, schizophrenia, MDD, Anxiety, PTSD, and addiction.
Marc Exilus is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in psychiatry. Marc has experience working in various settings, including community mental health, IOP/PHP, correctional, and hospital. I have experience working with diverse patient populations. Building the client-provider relationship is essential; I want to understand the client's needs and goals, and together, we can identify the best treatment outcomes. I have a proven record of treating complicated and severe mental disorders, including bipolar, schizophrenia, MDD, Anxiety, PTSD, and addiction.
![Photo of Scherra Boarman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a68123e-9123-4b94-ba8d-3921d69d9064/2/320x400.png)
Hi I'm Scherra, I will be fully dedicated and committed to you, as my patient, to ensure you feel your best again in a short period of time! As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I have years of experience in diverse roles in numerous care settings, from working in med-surg, ER, IMC, outpatient, and case management. Throughout these years of experience, I have faced numerous situations, where recognizing and understanding the importance of a patient’s overall mental health was an essential part in providing effective treatment.
Hi I'm Scherra, I will be fully dedicated and committed to you, as my patient, to ensure you feel your best again in a short period of time! As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I have years of experience in diverse roles in numerous care settings, from working in med-surg, ER, IMC, outpatient, and case management. Throughout these years of experience, I have faced numerous situations, where recognizing and understanding the importance of a patient’s overall mental health was an essential part in providing effective treatment.
![Photo of Crystal Garland, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98b247ab-95b7-4fb6-9b1f-06745e55c67e/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Nurturing Roots Mental Health Center, our mission is to provide comprehensive and compassionate mental health care to the Delaware community. Owned by a dedicated husband-and-wife team—a mental health therapist and a psychiatric nurse practitioner—we bring a unique blend of expertise and care to our practice. We strive to create a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where individuals can achieve personal growth, resilience, and overall well-being. Through a holistic and collaborative approach, we are committed to empowering our clients to lead fulfilling lives and reach their full potential.
At Nurturing Roots Mental Health Center, our mission is to provide comprehensive and compassionate mental health care to the Delaware community. Owned by a dedicated husband-and-wife team—a mental health therapist and a psychiatric nurse practitioner—we bring a unique blend of expertise and care to our practice. We strive to create a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where individuals can achieve personal growth, resilience, and overall well-being. Through a holistic and collaborative approach, we are committed to empowering our clients to lead fulfilling lives and reach their full potential.
![Photo of Nina Moore, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ded941f-1701-499f-bb5e-217078b32c9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patients often seek help with a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. In addition to addressing immediate symptoms, patients often need support in building coping mechanisms, resilience, and medication management. Many patients aim to improve their functional abilities, such as maintaining employment, managing relationships, and engaging in daily activities.
Patients often seek help with a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. In addition to addressing immediate symptoms, patients often need support in building coping mechanisms, resilience, and medication management. Many patients aim to improve their functional abilities, such as maintaining employment, managing relationships, and engaging in daily activities.
![Photo of Justine M Kiyang, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f23ffe09-a736-4145-b330-c50e2226d76b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Justine M Kiyang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19803 (Online Only)
Energetic and patient-focussed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to providing diverse evidence-based, and patient-centered psychiatric health services across the lifespan. Possess excellent skills in conducting patient Assessments, Diagnosing mental health conditions, and developing individualized and age-appropriate treatment plans.
Energetic and patient-focussed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to providing diverse evidence-based, and patient-centered psychiatric health services across the lifespan. Possess excellent skills in conducting patient Assessments, Diagnosing mental health conditions, and developing individualized and age-appropriate treatment plans.
![Photo of Yvonne J. Owens, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8771971e-ab36-4a74-81f7-5e9a9594e83a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yvonne J. Owens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19802 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with feeling down or lack of energy ? We provide care for individuals ages 5 and older suffering from mood and psychotic disorders, anxiety, trauma and ADHD. We offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy interventions.
Are you struggling with feeling down or lack of energy ? We provide care for individuals ages 5 and older suffering from mood and psychotic disorders, anxiety, trauma and ADHD. We offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy interventions.
![Photo of Jeffrey Shralow, MSN, PMHNP, CRNP, MA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e1bd81f-5614-415e-8b7e-2121cf7d3270/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeffrey Shralow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CRNP, MA
Verified Verified
Lewes, DE 19958
If you are struggling with depression, alienation, anxiety, and/or trauma related distress, I will offer you a path to healing and transformation. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a holistic orientation, I offer psychotherapy with an emphasis on transpersonal and spiritual perspectives. My therapeutic work is grounded in Jungian, psychodynamic and humanistic practices, and is deeply informed by ecological and Buddhist psychologies. My therapeutic style is genuine and open, with focus toward growth and actualization. I also offer harm reduction consultation related to psychiatric symptom management.
If you are struggling with depression, alienation, anxiety, and/or trauma related distress, I will offer you a path to healing and transformation. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a holistic orientation, I offer psychotherapy with an emphasis on transpersonal and spiritual perspectives. My therapeutic work is grounded in Jungian, psychodynamic and humanistic practices, and is deeply informed by ecological and Buddhist psychologies. My therapeutic style is genuine and open, with focus toward growth and actualization. I also offer harm reduction consultation related to psychiatric symptom management.
![Photo of Kristen Ryan, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebba1435-8c6e-4d35-bc92-fb2d90257f8e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19808
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to my profile! I am so glad you found me and would be honored to work with you on your mental health journey. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience in the mental health field. Initially from Long Island, NY, I obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology and Public Health, with a minor in Spanish from Stony Brook University. I returned to the University of Delaware to receive my Bachelor’s Degree in nursing. It has been working in both inpatient and outpatient dual-diagnosis psychiatry settings that I found my true passion, and pursued my MSN in psychiatry.
Welcome to my profile! I am so glad you found me and would be honored to work with you on your mental health journey. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience in the mental health field. Initially from Long Island, NY, I obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology and Public Health, with a minor in Spanish from Stony Brook University. I returned to the University of Delaware to receive my Bachelor’s Degree in nursing. It has been working in both inpatient and outpatient dual-diagnosis psychiatry settings that I found my true passion, and pursued my MSN in psychiatry.
See more therapy options for Long Neck
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Long Neck, DE
< 10
Psychiatrists in Long Neck, DE who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Long Neck, DE see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Long Neck?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.